Summary
In 2023, the City of West Allis, in conjunction with West Allis Artscape Committee and in collaboration with West Allis Public Works, sought applications from artists for the City of West Allis Public Art Utility Box Program. We invited amateur and professional artists to apply, as well as artist teams and educational institutions. We selected 11 different designs for the utility boxes. This program is made possible by the City of West Allis with Artscape Leadership Group funds, which are provided by First-Ring Industrial Redevelopment Enterprise (FIRE) a regional Community Development Entity. No residential tax dollars were used to fund this program.
Objectives
• To increase awareness and understanding of local art
• To present an affordable and accessible art experience for people of all ages
• To enhance the quality of life for the citizens of West Allis
• To promote West Allis as a cultural destination for visitors, artists, and residents
• To provide a showcase for local artists
Artwork Criteria
• Artwork will be created and then transferred to a vinyl wrap to scale the utility box
• Intent of artist’s design should be to wrap the utility box on all four sides
• Design may be duplicated on more than one side of the utility box
• Feedback provided by the Artscape Committee and City staff may alter the final design and positioning on the utility boxes
Selection Process
The selection committee reviewed the applications and selected potential designs. Exhibiting artists were required to sign an artist agreement. Some modifications to design may have been needed to accommodate the actual size and dimensions of the utility box selected by the committee. A $500 artist honorarium was paid for each final design chosen.
Selection Criteria
- Staff welcomed and encouraged original and unique concepts and designs
- Localized art that highlights the history and culture of West Allis was also appreciated
- Artwork was appropriate for viewing by residents and visitors of all ages
- Artwork criteria were met
Selected Artists & Locations
- 75th & Greenfield - Dave Watkins (abstract)
- 76th & Lincoln - Lauren Marvell (pizza)
- 70th & Greenfield - Joseph Juarez (stained glass)
- 66th & National - Lauren Budge (fruit)
- 60th & Burnham - Aaliyah Steele (woman)
- 95th & National - Cassandra Torres (purple sky & oranges)
- 84th & Lincoln - Ryan Laessig (Star Wars)
- 60th & Grant - Fair Housing Winner, Jalen G. (Fair Housing)
- 76th & Becher - Shelly Rosenquist (birch trees)
- 84th & National (N) - Carole Milos (paint movements)
- 84th & National (S) - Anthony Pazos (kite)
Responsibilities
- City staff worked with each artist to approve the design and modify it to fit the selected site.
- The City of West Allis, in conjunction with the Artscape Committee, reserves the right to photograph and reproduce images of the work for marketing and educational materials.
- The City of West Allis will promote the exhibit on the city’s website, social media accounts, and other media releases.
- Artists may be asked to participate in interviews or other promotional activities during the installation process.
Questions?
Contact Carson Coffield, Development Specialist: ccoffield@westalliswi.gov
